companionway Ocean 47

[blue-max]

I'm not happy with the companionway from cockpit to  saloon. Its very steep with 4 treads from top to saloon sole. Its also very heavy - made from thick solid hardwood planks - as it needs to be removed for front engine access. I was thinking to replace it with a lighter design at a better angle, perhaps using aluminium  rectangular section  with plywood treads and a handrail - possibly adapting a step ladder. Has anyone tried changing their companionway. Modern designs seem to  use polished stainless steel tubes as  framework for the treads but I prefer to  go with aluminium.

[Yngmar]

Sounds ugly! The solid wood companionway steps are a nice feature of these boats.

My preferred solution would've been to add a hinge at the top and gas lifters so it can be opened in place to access the engine bay. Not sure there is clearance for this past the table though - better check first.

[blue-max]

I am not sure your idea would work as the hinges would need to take much weight. Also the bottom end when swung up would need to  be held by a fitting on the saloon head.I would be fearful about sudden descent whilst working underneath. There is also a problem with the steepness of the angle and insufficient steps. By lengthening the steps and reducing the angle with more steps it would feel safer and perhaps I could make the lower step to  serve as a seat for the saloon table